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Guide to Khan El-Khalili Market, Egypt | True Egyptian Culture

Are you a true shopaholic? That is probably why you clicked on this blog.

In the world of shopping lovers, more is less i.e. how much you buy but still it seems less. Right? I hope you agree on that. That is why today we are going to talk about one the famous and the oldest open air market in Cairo, Egypt.

Your trip to Cairo will be incomplete if you do not visit Khan El-Khalili. This market is one of Cairo’s biggest attractions. People from all over the world are always keen to visit this market. It is always full of people hustling around the streets of the markets.

You will the most beautiful souvenirs of Pyramids and statues of mummies in the markets. You can buy these souvenirs as they are so amazing and comes in different colors and sizes.

Inside Khan el-Khalili Market

As you enter the market, you will witness small lanes all over the market. In these lanes, you can buy fresh spices of Egypt in the spice market, brass and silverware, traditional Egyptian jewellery.

Also there are fabric shops and carpet vendor where you can buy anything you desire. If you are a sisha (hookah) lover, then this is the place for you. There are lots of different kinds of sisha’s available. I bought one which had the statue of money at the bottom. It was really gorgeous!

As you move further into Khan el-Khalili market, you will also find gold vendor and antique shops. Here you can buy interesting antique pieces. If you are not able to find anything you wish, you can definitely ask any vendor and they will always be ready to help.

TOURIST TIP: If the vendors are selling you antique products, then they are probably fake. If they were real, they will not be legally exported. Beware!

If you get hungry in-between shopping, stop at various cafes and restaurant spread across the market. They serve some of the finest dishes. They are so beautifully made that they are an attraction itself.

FUN FACT:Al Fishawy is the oldest café in Cairo. It is decorated with large mirrors and the ceiling is the example of true Egyptian architecture.

After you finish your Khan El-Khalili market tour, walk out and visit the stunning Hussein Mosque, next to Hussein Square. I also tried food in the restaurant in Hussein Square. The food in each restaurant is so delicious that it will urge you to eat more and more!

IMPORTANT NOTE: Be careful there are people who can cheat you. Also, there will be people coming to you and try to sell their goods. If you don’t want to buy just keep walking. It will waste your as well as their time.

FAQ?

How to Reach: Take a taxi to the market.

What to Expect: Amazing souvenirs, fresh spices, and anything you desire is in front of you.

Weather: The weather is generally hot and dry. So, your travel clothing should be light and comfortable.

What to carry: Sun block, a hat, duffle bag to put your stuff into and water bottles.

Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP)

“I am that person who dropped her B.Tech (really!) and chose to travel, specifically travel blogging. I’m Manmeet Kaur, a crazy, fun loving and adventurous person from Delhi. I knew I had an interest in writing since I was in school. I didn’t want to be an engineer, doctor or I would say a teacher. My plans were different. I wanted to travel which I guess no one, specially girl had chosen to do in my family for a living. And like other human beings on this planet I have big dreams too. But my ultimate dream is to travel the world and share my experiences through writing and blogging.” 🙂